L4-L5 Level Research Articles

Mismatch between Augmented Reality Navigation Images and Actual Location of a Cauda Equina Tumor:A Case Report.

Augmented reality navigation is the one of the navigation technologies that allows computer-generated virtual images to be projected onto a real-world environment. Augmented reality navigation can be used in spinal tumor surgery. However, it is unknown if there are any pitfalls when using this technique. The patient in this report underwent complete resection of a cauda equina tumor at the L2-L3 level using microscope-based augmented reality navigation. Although the registration error of navigation was <1 mm, we found a discrepancy between the augmented reality navigation images and the actual location of the tumor, which we have called "navigation mismatch". This mismatch, which was caused by the mobility of the spinal tumor in the dura mater, seems to be one of the pitfalls of augmented reality navigation for spinal tumors. Combined use of intraoperative ultrasound and augmented reality navigation seems advisable in such cases. J. Med. Invest. 71 : 174-176, February, 2024.

Decreasing implant load indicates spinal fusion when measured continuously

Reliable and timely assessment of bone union between vertebrae is considered a key challenge after spinal fusion surgery. Recently, a novel sensor concept demonstrated the ability to objectively assess posterolateral fusion based on continuous implant load monitoring. The aim of this study was to investigate systematically the concept in a mono-segmental fusion model using an updated sensor setup.Three sheep underwent bilateral facetectomy at level L2-L3 and L4-L5. The segments were stabilized using two unconnected pedicle-screw-rod constructs per level. Sensing devices were attached to the rods between each pedicle screw pair and the loads were continuously monitored over 16 weeks. After euthanasia, the spines were biomechanically tested for their range of motion and high-resolution CT scans were performed to confirm the fusion success.After an initial increase in implant load until reaching a maximum (100 %) at approximately week 4, eleven out of twelve sensors measured a constant decrease in implant load to 52 ± 9 % at euthanasia. One sensor measurement was compromised by newly forming bone growing against the sensor clamp. Bridging bone at each facet and minor remnant segmental motion (<0.7°) confirmed the fusion of all motion segments.Data obtained by continuous measurement of implant loading of spinal screw-rod constructs enables objective monitoring of spinal fusion progression. The sensor concept provides valuable real-time information, offering quantifiable data as an alternative to traditional imaging techniques. However, the design of the current sensor concept needs to be matured, tailored to, and validated for the human spine.

The assessment of paraspinal muscle epimuscular fat in participants with and without low back pain: A case-control study

It remains unclear whether paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration in low back pain (LBP) is i) solely intramuscular, ii) is lying outside the epimysium between the muscle and fascial plane (epimuscular) or iii) or combination of both, as imaging studies often use different segmentation protocols that are not thoroughly described. Epimuscular fat possibly disturbs force generation of paraspinal muscles, but is seldomly explored. This project aimed to 1) compare epimuscular fat in participants with and without chronic LBP, and 2) determine whether epimuscular fat is different across lumbar spinal levels and associated with BMI, age, sex and LBP status, duration or intensity. Fat and water lumbosacral MRIs of 50 chronic LBP participants and 41 healthy controls were used. The presence and extent of epimuscular fat for the paraspinal muscle group (erector spinae and multifidus) was assessed using a qualitative score (0–5 scale; 0 = no epimuscular fat and 5 = epimuscular fat present along the entire muscle) and quantitative manual segmentation method. Chi-squared tests evaluated associations between qualitative epimuscular fat ratings and LBP status at each lumbar level. Bivariate and partial spearman’s rho correlation assessed relationships between quantitative and qualitative epimuscular fat with participants’ characteristics. Epimuscular fat was more frequent at the L4-L5 (X2 = 13.781, p = 0.017) and L5-S1 level (X2 = 27.825, p < 0.001) in participants with LBP compared to controls, which was not found for the higher lumbar levels. The total qualitative score (combined from all levels) showed a significant positive correlation with BMI, age, sex (female) and LBP status (r = 0.23–0.55; p < 0.05). Similarly, the total area of epimuscular fat (quantitative measure) was significantly correlated with BMI, age and LBP status (r = 0.26–0.57; p < 0.05). No correlations were found between epimuscular fat and LBP duration or intensity. Paraspinal muscle epimuscular fat is more common in chronic LBP patients. The functional implications of epimuscular fat should be further explored.

Comparison of Two Different Positions for Ultrasound-Guided Intervertebral Distance Evaluation.

During neuraxial anaesthesia, correct patient positioning is key for increased block success and (patient) comfort. The aim of this prospective study was to compare the lateral fetal decubitus (LFD) position with the sitting fetal lotus (SFL) regarding interspinous distance, transverse diameters of paravertebral muscles measured with ultrasonography, and patient comfort. Fifty adult participants who could sit cross-legged and had no lumbar anomalies were included in our prospective study. In both SFL and LFD positions, measurements were performed with ultrasonography; in the axial plane, interspinous distance at the level of L4-L5, in the sagittal plan, with the probe slightly tilted, subcutaneous tissue-spinous process depth, and transverse diameters of paravertebral muscles were measured. Stretcher, waist position, and abdominal comfort were scored on a scale of 1 (very bad) to 7 (perfect) with a verbal numeric satisfaction scale. Interspinous distance was significantly larger in the SFL position than in the LFD position (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two positions (P > 0.05) regarding patient comfort. Paravertebral muscle diameters were significantly broader in the SFL position than in the LFD position. The diameter of the left paravertebral muscle in the SFL position (45.8±8.8 mm) was larger than that in the LFD position (43±7.8 mm; P < 0.001). The diameter of the right paravertebral muscle in the SFL position was (47±9 mm) larger than that in the LFD position (43.4±7.6 mm; P < 0.001). Although there was no difference regarding the comfort between the two positions, the interspinous distance was larger in the SFL position than in the LFD position.

Correlation of thecal sac cross sectional area to total volume

BackgroundSpinal anesthesia (SA) has been increasingly utilized in lumbar surgery due to its various advantages over general anesthesia (GA), however failure of the first dose requiring intraoperative conversion to GA occurs in as many as 3.6% of SA patients. Some studies have reported that a larger thecal sac volume may dilute the anesthetic and play a role in first dose failure. Unfortunately, easy determination of thecal sac volume has not been reported in the literature. Thus, we sought to determine whether cross-sectional area obtained from MRI accurately predicts the volume of the thecal sac. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review of 80 patients who underwent lumbar surgery with spinal anesthesia. T1 and T2-weighted MRI sequences were used to measure thecal sac area at each level between L1-S1. The volume of the thecal sac was calculated using HorosTM. A statistical model was derived relating the area at each level to the thecal sac volume. Of the 80 patients, 20% were reserved and utilized to test the accuracy of the statistical model. ResultsThe area of the thecal sac positively correlated with volume at each lumbar level. The area of the thecal sac at the L4-L5 level most accurately represented total thecal sac volume (R2 = 0.588, RMSE = 2.76). ConclusionCross-sectional area of the L4-L5 spinal level obtained from MRI sequences may be utilized as a proxy for thecal sac volume.

The Fate of Pre-Existing L5-S1 Degeneration following Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion of L4-L5 and Above

Background: Previous studies have identified various risk factors for adjacent segment disease (ASD) at the L5-S1 level after fusion surgery, including preoperative sagittal imbalance, longer fusion, and preoperative disc degeneration. However, only a few studies have explored the risk factors for ASD at the L5-S1 level after oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) at the L4-L5 level and above. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for symptomatic ASD at the L5-S1 level in patients with pre-existing degeneration after OLIF at L4-L5 and above. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent OLIF at L4-L5 and above, with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. Patients with central stenosis or Lee grade 2 or 3 foraminal stenosis at L5-S1 preoperatively were excluded. Patients were divided into ASD and non-ASD groups based on the occurrence of new-onset L5 or S1 radicular pain requiring epidural steroid injection (ESI). The clinical and radiological factors were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors for ASD of L5-S1. Results: A total of 191 patients with a mean age ± standard deviation of 68.6 ± 8.3 years were included. Thirty-four (21.7%) patients underwent ESI at the L5 root after OLIF. In the logistic regression analyses, severe disc degeneration (OR (95% confidence interval (CI)): 2.65 (1.16–6.09)), the presence of facet effusion (OR (95% CI): 2.55 (1.05–6.23)), and severe paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration (OR (95% CI): 4.47 (1.53–13.05)) were significant risk factors for ASD in L5-S1. Conclusions: In this study, the presence of facet effusion, severe disc degeneration, and severe paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration at the L5-S1 level were associated with the development of ASD at L5-S1 following OLIF at L4-L5 and above. For patients with these conditions, surgeons could consider including L5-S1 in the fusion when considering OLIF at the L4-L5 level and above.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with placement of steerable banana cage: A single-center retrospective analysis of radiographic parameters of success

IntroductionThe transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is among the most utilized methods for the surgical treatment of lumbar degenerative disc disease. The TLIF has advanced significantly with several iterative changes since its inception in the early 1980s, with the advent of several generations of interbody types, shapes, and materials. Steerable curvilinear interbodies are among the most recent innovations in this space and may offer biomechanical advantages, namely in preservation of lumbar and segmental lordosis. While radiographic parameters have been investigated for other cage shapes and lumbar interbody fusion techniques, no study has investigated postoperative radiographic outcomes specific to TLIFs done with curvilinear interbodies. MethodsThis study is a retrospective review of TLIFs performed with curvilinear interbodies between 2019 and 2022 at a single institution. Upright radiographs were obtained preoperatively and at several timepoints postoperatively. Radiographic variables including interspace height and segmental lordosis were collected. Results26 surgeries with 32 curvilinear interbodies were performed across 3 years. There was significant increase in segmental lordosis at the L4-L5 (p = 0.0183) and L5-S1 levels (p = 0.004) as well as interspace height postoperatively at levels L3-L4 (p = 0.011) and L4-L5 (p = 0.002). Pain as measured with the numeric rating scale significantly improved in the overall cohort postoperatively (p<0.001). ConclusionsTLIF with curvilinear interbody placement increases segmental lordosis and interspace height at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels, and increased interspace height at the L3-L4 and L4-L5 levels. Further investigation into additional radiographic parameters is warranted and expanded cohort size would benefit deeper analysis of other spinal levels. Implications for practiceAs an increasing number of cage designs and materials are brought to market, studies such as this allow for better understanding of cage specific outcomes allowing for better informed device selection.

Unilateral interlaminar fenestration on the convex side provides a reliable access for intrathecal administration of nusinersen in spinal muscular atrophy: a retrospective study

BackgroundAs the first gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), nusinersen is supposed to be administrated via intrathecal injection regularly for a lifetime. However, for SMA patients with severe spinal deformities, bony fusion following posterior spinal instrumentation sets great obstacles for the application of nusinersen. Therefore, efforts have been devoted to the exploration of appropriate approach for nusinersen administration. This study aims to evaluate the safety and reliability of unilateral interlaminar fenestration on the convex side during spinal fusion surgery for intrathecal nusinersen injection in SMA.ResultsSMA patients receiving posterior spinal fusion and interlaminar fenestration in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2020 to October 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. 13 patients were included. Of the 13 patients, 10 were classified into SMA type II and 3 into SMA type III. Distal fusion to pelvis was undertaken in 11 patients; while L5 was selected as the lowest instrumented vertebra in the other 2 patients. All patients received interlaminar fenestration on the convex side only with an area of about 15 mm × 20 mm. Fenestration at L2–L3 level was performed in 6 patients; while L3–L4 level was selected for windowing in the remaining 7 patients. 9 of the 13 patients received lumbar puncture and intrathecal nusinersen administration during the 1-year follow-up, with an accumulative total of 50 times. All injections were performed successfully under ultrasound guidance, with no one transferred to radiographic assistance. No severe complications occurred after injection.ConclusionsIn SMA with severe scoliosis planning to receive posterior spinal fusion, unilateral lumbar interlaminar fenestration on the convex side provides a feasible and reliable access for intrathecal nusinersen administration after surgery.

Abdominal Fat is a Reliable Indicator of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration than Body Mass Index

The objective of this study was to determine whether abdominal fat status correlates with low back pain (LBP) and lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and to identify a new anthropometric index to predict the likelihood of developing LBP. Patients with chronic low back pain admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University from June 2022 to May 2023 were collected as the experimental group. Volunteers without LBP from June 2022 to May 2023 were also recruited as the control group. They underwent lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging and had their body mass index (BMI) measured. Abdominal parameters were measured on T2-weighted median sagittal magnetic resonance imaging at the L3/4 level: abdominal diameter, sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD), and subcutaneous abdominal fat thickness (SAFT). Each lumbar IVDD was assessed using the Pfirrmann grading system. The differences in abdominal parameters and BMI between the experimental and control groups were compared, and the correlations between abdominal parameters, BMI, LBP, and IVDD were analyzed. Abdominal diameter, SAD, and SAFT had moderate-to-strong correlations with BMI. SAD was significantly associated with severe IVDD at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels with odds ratio of 3.201 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.850-5.539, P<0.001) and 1.596 (95% CI: 1.072-2.378, P=0.021), respectively. BMI had no significant association with severe IVDD. In women, SAFT and BMI were significantly correlated with LBP; in men, only SAFT was significantly correlated with LBP. Appropriate cutoff values for men and women were 1.52cm (area under the curve=0.702, 95% CI: 0.615-0.789, P < 0.001) and 1.97cm (area under the curve=0.740, 95% CI: 0.662-0.818, P < 0.001), respectively. Men and women with SAFT of >1.52cm and >1.97cm, respectively, had significantly higher rates of LBP. SAD could predict severe IVDD better than BMI. SAFT is a better predictor of LBP than BMI, especially in men, and reliably distinguished patients with LBP from asymptomatic subjects with reliable cutoff values for men and women.

Management for Patient with Asthma in Lumbal Canal Stenosis Using General Anesthetic and Epidural Analgetic: A Case Report

Background: Lumbar canal stenosis, which often occurs concurrently with degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS), is characterized by low back and leg pain. The treatment of high-degree spondylolisthesis is by surgery, which is a combination procedure of decompression and fusion. Surgical patients with a history of uncontrolled asthma three months before surgery had nearly double the risk of postoperative mortality. Case presentation: A 53-year-old male patient was diagnosed with Lumbal Canal Stenosis ec HNP at levels L2-l3, L3-l4, L4-l5, L5-s1 Spondylolisthesis at level L4-l5 Meyerding grade 1 Spondylosis Lumbalis. The patient has a history of mild intermittent bronchial asthma, which was diagnosed 2 years ago. The patient was planned for Decompression-Stabilization-Fusion surgery, with the anesthesia plan being general anesthesia prone position with epidural analgesia. Conclusion: Combined general anesthesia (GA) and epidural analgesia (EA) for major surgery due to excellent pain control, reduced perioperative morbidity, and even reduced mortality compared with systemic analgesia. For surgical patients who have a history of asthma, determining whether a patient's asthma is well-controlled or poorly controlled is key to mitigating perioperative complications.

Distributed edge signal control for cooperating pre-planned connected automated vehicle path and signal timing at edge computing-enabled intersections

The emerging technologies in both wireless communication and automation driving that have enabled vehicles to communicate with infrastructure, and with each other, are collectively known as connected vehicle and automated vehicle (CAV) technology. In existing connected automated vehicle-based and traditional traffic control systems, urban arterials with signalized intersections still face issues, including local demand uncertainty and automation level compatibility. Here, a distributed signal control system that integrates automated vehicle path planning information is adapted to address these issues. The proposed method includes planning-based local demand estimation and demand-aware max pressure control in an edge computing environment. A bivariable automation model is developed to represent the various, i.e., L1-L5, automatic driving levels. A real district with typical scenarios is implemented to verify the proposed method. The simulation results show that the proposed demand-aware edge control provides better control results than benchmarks for almost all different performance indices and network demands. The proposed control reduces the waiting time by up to 30%, and the time loss decreased by up to 20%. Moreover, better performances are always obtained at different automation levels, so there is a good compatibility of the automation driving for the adaptation of the CAV flows, especially at the L3-L5 levels.

Percutaneous removal and replacement of a novel percutaneous interspinous device.

Objective: The aim of this study is to explain the technique used for removing and replacing a novel percutaneous interspinous device (PID).Procedure: Three male patients, with a mean age of 66years (range 62-72), were included in the study due to displacement (N = 2) or misplacement (N = 1) of the novel PID. This occurred after a mean of 23.3 ± 10.5 days from the initial placement (range 13-34) at the L4-L5 level (N = 1) and L3-L4 level (N = 2). Following the removal of the PID, four new devices were implanted.Conclusion: The novel PID can be safely removed either immediately after its placement during the procedure or after a certain period of days or months from its implantation. The removal procedure can be performed percutaneously under imaging guidance, by closing the four retractable wings, using the same instrumentation as utilized during the initial implantation.

Comparison of ultrasonographic anatomy of spine in traditional sitting position versus crossed leg position in term pregnancy: A prospective, observational, crossover study.

The traditional sitting position (TSP) and crossed leg sitting position (CLSP) are positions used for neuraxial anaesthesia. This study compared the interspinous space (ISS) distance using ultrasound assessment of the spine in these positions in parturients in term gestation. This prospective, observational study involved ultrasonographic spine assessment in 100 parturients in term gestation with them in either TSP or CLSP. The median sagittal view measured the crescent-shaped hyperechoic reflections of the spinous processes and ISSs in L3-L4, L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels. The paramedian sagittal oblique view showed interlaminar spaces (ILSs). Paired t-test and Chi-square test were used for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. The ISS distance (cm) increased in CLSP compared to TSP at levels L3-L4 (1.44 [0.34] [1.34-1.54] versus 1.22 [0.30] [1.12-1.32], P = 0.04), L4-L5 (1.34 [0.39] [1.20-1.48] versus 1.14 [0.30] [0.96-1.32], P = 0.01) and L5-S1 (1.28 [0.33] [1.17-1.39] versus 1.18 [0.23] [1.11-1.26], P = 0.02). The ILS distance (cm) increased in CLSP compared to TSP at interspaces L3-L4 (1.27 [0.34] [1.18-1.36] versus 1.12 [0.20] [1.08-1.16], P = 0.001), L4-L5 (1.26 [0.33] [1.17-1.35] versus 1.19 [0.32] [1.12-1.26], P = 0.01) and L5-S1 (1.28 [0.33] [1.18-1.38] versus 1.16 [0.27] [1.09-1.23], P = 0.001). Crossed leg sitting position for neuraxial anaesthesia in term pregnancy results in more widening of both interspinous and interlaminar spaces compared to traditional sitting position.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome Following Spinal Fusion Surgery in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report

Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare immune-mediated polyneuropathy that rapidly leads to symmetric, ascending progressive weakness. Although GBS is typically associated with various infectious diseases, such as upper respiratory infections or gastroenteritis, it has also been reported following spine surgery. In this report, the authors present a case of GBS in an elderly patient after spinal fusion surgery and emphasize the importance of evaluating new-onset weakness in such cases. A 79-year-old man with diabetes mellitus and hypertension presented with weakness of the lower extremities and neurogenic claudication with chronic radicular pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed anterolisthesis at the L4-L5 level and disc protrusions with central and lateral recess spinal stenosis at L3-L4-L5. Following surgery, the patient complained of weakness and paresthesia in both upper extremities, prompting further investigation. An electrophysiologic study confirmed demyelinating neuropathy and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed elevated viral immunoglobulin levels and albumin-cytological dissociation despite negative bacterial and antiganglioside antibody tests. The patient received intravenous immunoglobulin infusion treatment and showed significant improvement, with full motor function recovery in all extremities after 6 weeks. The authors emphasize the importance of considering GBS in patients experiencing deteriorating neurological symptoms after spine surgery and suggest that electrophysiologic studies and CSF analysis are needed for an accurate diagnosis. Additionally, this report highlights the need for increased vigilance regarding the rapid onset of GBS symptoms in elderly patients following spinal surgery.

Fourth lumbar artery continuation of the common iliac artery with a retro-psoas course demonstrated by CT.

To describe a case of an anomalous common iliac artery (CIA) arising from the aorta as the fourth lumbar artery (4th LA) and following a retro-psoas course as the continuation of the 4th LA. Contrast-enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) findings of an incidentally detected anomalous CIA are described in an 8-year-old girl. CT showed that the right CIA originated from the distal aorta at the L3-L4 level with an acute angle and continued posteriorly in the course of the 4th LA. The right CIA descended into the iliac fossa as a single artery, lying posterior to the psoas muscle. It gave off the internal iliac artery (IIA) low in the iliac fossa and continued as the external iliac artery (EIA). The median sacral artery (MSA) originated from the left proximal CIA and joined the posterior division of the right IIA. Fourth LA continuation of the CIA is a rare vascular anomaly with a few published reports to date. The anomaly occurs far more on the right side than the left and is mostly asymptomatic. An abnormal connection between the umbilical artery and the distal aorta probably results in this anomaly, as well as in another group of CIA anomalies that are characterized by the absence of one or two CIAs with trifurcation or quadrifurcation of the distal aorta. Although the vascular anomaly is mostly asymptomatic, knowledge of it is important in the interventions of the area to prevent complications.

Early Compensatory Segmental Angle Changes at L3-L4 and L4-L5 After a L5-S1 Interbody Fusion for a Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis.

The retrospective study included patients who underwent an L5-S1 anterior (ALIF) or transforaminal (TLIF) lumbar interbody fusion with posterior pedicle screw instrumentation for grade 1 spondylolisthesis from 2018 to 2022. To compare early reciprocal changes at the L3-L4 and L4-L5 adjacent levels 6 months after ALIF or TLIF at L5-S1. Degenerative and chronic isthmic spondylolistheses often result in decreased segmental lordosis (SL) at L5-S1. This can lead to lordotic overcompensation at adjacent levels to maintain spinopelvic balance. However, the fate of adjacent angles after interbody fusion is not well understood. Preoperative and 6-month postoperative measurements of SL (L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1), lumbar lordosis, and pelvic incidence (PI) were obtained from sagittal standing radiographs. Preliminary t tests were performed for descriptive purposes, and multiple regression was used for hypothesis testing. Ninety-eight patients met the inclusion criteria (50 ALIF and 48 TLIF). A greater amount of lordosis achieved at L5-S1 was significantly associated with a greater reduction of SL at L4-L5 ( r = -0.65, P < 0.001) or L3-L4 ( r = -0.46, P < 0.001). A greater preoperative PI was associated with a greater reduction of SL at L4-L5 ( r = -0.42, P < 0.001) and at L3-L4 ( r = -0.44, P < 0.001). At 6 months after a lumbar interbody fusion at L5-S1, greater compensatory changes with lordosis reduction are observed at the supra-adjacent L4-L5 and L3-L4 levels in patients achieving greater L5-S1 SL. In addition, preoperative PI played a role in influencing lordotic correction.

In-vivo characterization of the lumbar annulus fibrosus in adults with ultrasonography and shear wave elastography.

In vivo characterization of intervertebral disc (IVD) mechanical properties and microstructure could give an insight into the onset and progression of disc pathologies. Ultrasound shearwave elastography provided promising results in children, but feasibility in adult lumbar discs, which are deep in the abdomen, was never proved. The aim of this work was to determine the feasibility and reliability of ultrasound assessment of lumbar IVD in adults. Thirty asymptomatic adults were included (22 to 67 years old). Subjects were lying supine, and the annulus fibrosus of the L3-L4 IVD was imaged by conventional ultrasonography and shearwave elastography. Shear wave speed (SWS) and lamellar thickness were measured. Reliability was determined through repeated measurements acquired by three operators. Average SWS in AF at the L3L4 level was 4.0±0.9m/s, with an inter-operator uncertainty of 8.7%, while lamellar thickness was 255±27µm with an uncertainty of 9.6%. Measurement was not feasible in one out of four subjects with BMI > 24kg/m² (overweight). Ultrasound assessment of annulus fibrosus revealed feasible, within certain limitations, and reproducible. This method gives an insight into disc microstructure and mechanical properties, and it could be applied for the early detection or follow-up of disc pathologies.

Value of paraspinal muscle myography in diagnosing L5 radiculopathy

Introduction. Electromyography (EMG) is an important diagnostic tool for the evaluation of radiculopathy. Since 1990s a paraspinal mapping technique is used, which detects spontaneous activity in paraspinal muscles (PM) at the level of several vertebral segments. This modality seems to be highly conclusive for diagnosing radicular lesions. The main limitation of this method is spontaneous activity dependence on the disease duration.&#x0D; The aim of the study is to assess if PM EMG with motor unit potential (MUP) analysis is conclusive for diagnosing lumbar radiculopathy.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The study examined 58 patients (26 men and 32 women) aged 2673 years with MRI-confirmed symptomatic L5 mono-radiculopathy due to L4L5 herniated discs. The study assessed the neurological status and needle EMG of m. tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and PM at L4L5 and L3L4 levels on both symptomatic and healthy sides immediately before radicular microscopic decompression surgery. Surgery outcomes were evaluated by early and late postoperative questioning.&#x0D; Results. In PMs of the affected level and side, the average MUP duration was significantly different from opposite MUPs at the higher segment (р 0.001). At 3-month disease duration, a neurogenic pattern was significantly more frequent in affected PMs (p = 0.031) with neurogenic PM MUP rearrangement in 73.3% of patients. In the TFL (L5), neurogenic changes were reported only in 47.4% of patients. When compared to normal values, significant differences were found in the average duration of TFL MUPs (р = 0.001) and PM MUPs of the affected level and side (р 0.001) both in patients with motor disorders and those with isolated pain syndrome or sensory disorders.&#x0D; Conclusions. For diagnosing radiculopathy, the sensitivity of needle PM EMG is 82.6% (48/58; 95% CI 70.691.4%). Compared to limb myotome assessment, the highest informative value of PM EMG was reported in patients with the disease duration for up to 3 months. PM EMG was conclusive for diagnosing radicular lesions in patients with isolated pain syndrome or sensory disorders.

OA03 Trauma secondary to a horse riding accident as a potential accelerating factor in inflammatory axial sponyloarthropathy: a case report and literature review

Abstract Introduction Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease characterised by axial involvement and sacroiliitis. The etiology of AS remains elusive, with genetic and environmental factors implicated in disease development and progression. This case report aims to investigate the potential association between trauma and the acceleration of AS in individuals positive for HLA-B27. Furthermore one purpose of this case-report is to ascertain any link between horse riding accidents in jockeys or professionals undertaking horse riding as a career choice. Is there a correlation between trauma and development of inflammatory axial spondyloarthropathy subsequently or not. Case description A 24-year-old female patient with a medical history of eczema and Graves' disease, currently undergoing propylthiouracil treatment, was referred to the rheumatology clinic due to persistent back pain for the past six to seven years following a horse riding accident. The patient had previously received physiotherapy and found relief with naproxen and co-codamol. The pain primarily affects her lower spine and radiates down her legs. While movement provides some relief, lying down exacerbates the pain. The patient experiences stiffness for approximately 30 minutes in the morning but does not exhibit peripheral joint symptoms. Exercise helps alleviate her symptoms. The patient reported a family history of psoriasis but denied any history of uveitis, inflammatory bowel disease, weight loss, night sweats, heartblock or achilles tendinitis. She also gave a history of joint hyper mobility with reduced flexion at the spine over the years. Blood tests revealed normal levels of ANA, CCP, ESR, rheumatoid factor, B12, HbA1c, and thyroid function. Ferritin levels were 30.2, and HLA B27 was positive. Joint examination did not reveal any signs of synovitis. The patient exhibited good range of motion in the spine. SLR's were positive on both sides and no tenderness over spine or sacroiliac joints. Systemic Examination was normal. BASDAI score was 4. Occiput to wall distance of 0 centimeters. Beighton score 4/9. Subsequently MRI whole spine/SI Joints were organised and results indicated a central disc protrusion at the L4-L5 level leading to critical spinal stenosis and likely impinging on the transitioning L5 and S1 nerve roots. Additionally, a disc protrusion at the L5-S1 which was impinging on the left S1 nerve root. Bilateral sacroiliitis was also observed. Patient was treated with NSAIDs and physiotherapy with good results with a view for a subsequent MRI, and escalation to biologics if symptoms were to worsen. Discussion The presented case raises the question of whether trauma accelerates the progression of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in individuals who are positive for HLA-B27. Although this specific case involves a 24-year-old female patient with a history of back pain following a horse riding accident, additional research and studies would be required to draw definitive conclusions regarding the relationship between trauma and the development or acceleration of AS in HLA-B27 positive individuals. The question this case report poses and there is little in terms of research and case reports present, whether the involvement of the lady in question in a horse riding accident unmasked her ankylosing spondylitis given her HLA B27 positivity and the presence of sacroilitis on MRI scans. Literature review revealed a potential role of trauma accelerating the progression of ankylosing spondylitis in individuals who are also positive for HLA B-27, in addition in some cases it lead to detection and unmasking of chronic back pain which was inflammatory in nature rather than mechanical or a combination of both. This was revealed by the horse riding accident given the nature of the pain which had been constant and worsening which lead to a suspicion of a possible inflammatory component and hence further investigations were done. In conclusion this case report highlights the importance of a possible correlation between AS in HLA B27 positive individuals and raises the question whether trauma secondary to sports injuries like horseback riding accidents in our patients case, accelerates the progression of AS in individuals who are positive for HLA-B27. Key learning points This case report highlights the potential role of trauma following a sports injury as a contributing factor in the acceleration of AS in individuals positive for HLA-B27. Further investigations, including prospective studies, are warranted to elucidate the complex interplay between trauma, genetic predisposition, and disease progression in AS. The purpose of this case report is to remind sports medicine physicians of the prevalence of rheumatologic diseases in general and ankylosing spondylitis in particular and of the various ways in which spondyloarthropathies may present in athletes/sports personnel. Increased suspicion may lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, potentially reducing illness severity and duration and improving the performance of athletes with this condition.

Analysis of Degenerative and Isthmic Lumbar Spondylolisthesis from the Difference of Pelvic Parameters and the Degree of Degeneration through Imaging Data.

In previous studies, many imaging analyses have been conducted to explore the changes in the intervertebral disc degeneration (DD), facet joint osteoarthritis (FJOA), L4 inclination angle (L4IA), pelvis-related parameters, lumbar lordosis (LL), and paravertebral muscle (PVM) in the occurrence and development of degenerative spinal diseases via measuring the X-ray, CT, and MRI data of clinical patients. However, few studies have quantitatively investigated the pelvic parameters and the degree of spine degeneration in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS) and isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis (ILS). This study discusses the changes in the imaging parameters of DLS, ILS, and a control group; explores the correlation between different measurement parameters; and discusses their risk factors. We evaluated 164 patients with single L4-L5 grade 1 level degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS group), 161 patients with single L4-L5 grade 1 level isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis (ILS group), and 164 patients with non-specific back pain (control group). The grades of DD and FJOA as well as the percentage of the fat infiltration area (%FIA) of multifidus muscle (MM) at the L4-L5 level were measured via CT and MRI. Lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), the L4 inclination angle (L4IA), and sacral slope (SS) were measured via X-ray film, and the differences among the DLS group, ILS group, and control group were analyzed. Furthermore, the risk factors related to the incidences of the DLS and ILS groups were discussed. First, the pelvis-related parameters of DLS and ILS patients were 51.91 ± 12.23 and 53.28 ± 11.12, respectively, while those of the control group were 40.13 ± 8.72 (p1 < 0.001, p2 < 0.001). Lumbar lordosis (LL) in DLS patients (39.34 ± 8.57) was significantly lower than in the control group (44.40 ± 11.79, p < 0.001). On the contrary, lumbar lordosis (LL) in the ILS group (55.16 ± 12.31) was significantly higher than in the control group (44.40 ± 11.79, p < 0.001). Secondly, the three groups of patients were characterized by significant variations in the L4 inclination angle (L4IA), disc degeneration (DD), facet joint osteoarthritis (FJOA), pelvis-related parameters, and paravertebral muscle (PVM) (p < 0.05). Finally, logistic regression suggests that the L4IA, FJOA, and PT may be risk factors for the occurrence of DLS, and the occurrence of ILS is correlated with the L4IA, FJOA, DD, PT, and LL. Compared with the control group, there are changes in pelvic parameters, the L4IA, LL, DD, FJOA, and PVM in DLS and ILS patients, and the degree is different. The parameters within the same group are related to each other, and DLS and ILS have different risk factors. The mechanical stability of the spine is affected by the parameter and angle changes, which may be of great significance for explaining the cause of spondylolisthesis, evaluating the health of the lumbar spine, and guiding the lifestyles of patients.